1. Home
  2. Visa requirements
  3. China
  4. United Kingdom passport
Entry requirement · United Kingdom passport

China visa for British citizens

Passport United Kingdom
Destination China

United Kingdom passport holders need to obtain a visa from an embassy, consulate or visa centre before travelling to China.

Answer Visa required

Yes, a visa is required

Entry requirement
Visa required
Maximum stay
Set by the visa
Apply before travel
Yes
Last updated
February 2026

What United Kingdom passport holders need to do

  1. Find the embassy, consulate or visa application centre that covers where you live.
  2. Complete the application form and gather your documents: passport, photos, itinerary, proof of funds and accommodation.
  3. Book an appointment, pay the fee and give biometrics if they are required.
  4. Wait for the decision before you book non-refundable travel.

United Kingdom is one of 128 passports in the “visa required” group for China. See the full China visa requirements for every passport.

Easier alternatives in Asia for United Kingdom passport holders

China is one of 19 destinations in the “visa required” group for the United Kingdom passport, which ranks #6 worldwide with a mobility score of 162. Of 50 destinations in Asia, 39 need no visa arranged in advance; the easiest are listed below.

DestinationRequirementMax stay
Armenia Visa-free 180 days
Brunei Visa-free 90 days
Georgia Visa-free 360 days
Hong Kong Visa-free 180 days
Israel Visa-free 90 days
Japan Visa-free 90 days
Kazakhstan Visa-free 30 days
Kyrgyzstan Visa-free 60 days
Macau Visa-free 180 days
Malaysia Visa-free –
Mongolia Visa-free 30 days
Palestine Visa-free –

All visa-free countries for the United Kingdom passport

Frequently asked questions

Do British citizens need a visa for China?

United Kingdom passport holders need to obtain a visa from an embassy, consulate or visa centre before travelling to China.

Can British citizens get a visa on arrival in China?

No. United Kingdom passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to China.

Do China citizens need a visa for the United Kingdom?

China passport holders need to obtain a visa from an embassy, consulate or visa centre before travelling to the United Kingdom.

China visa requirements for other passports

Data last updated February 2026. This page covers short visits such as tourism. Rules can change at short notice and differ for work, study or long stays. Confirm with the embassy or official immigration website of China before you book.